Postdoctoral position on “Modeling the biophysics of microbial communities” in Zürich

The Environmental Microfluidics Group of Prof. Roman Stocker at the Institute of Environmental Engineering at ETH Zurich is seeking a dynamic and motivated postdoctoral researcher with extensive expertise in theoretical biophysics to work on multiple projects on human and environmental microbiomes. The position is funded by a Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) grant on Microbiomes. This position is part of a large collaboration encompassing 20 partner groups from five Swiss universities and one University Hospital.

Microbiomes consist of diverse communities of microorganisms which, by engaging in complex and often evolving interactions, regulate the functioning of human bodies or natural ecosystems. Beyond metabolic interactions, microbial communities are characterized and often shaped by rich biophysical interactions. The distance between cells determines the strength of the exchange of metabolites and the probability of encounter between cells. The movement of cells governs the rate at which cells aggregate into clusters or communities. The rate of flow dictates how rapidly nutrients are replenished and a community is refreshed. The transport of dissolved substances, by diffusion and flow, governs the field of signals that cells sense and can use for navigation, for example to find conspecifics or sources of nutrients. The spatial configuration of the environments affects all of these processes, from flow to nutrient fields, and further shapes the attachment and motility characteristics of cells. Many of these processes are general across multiple microbiomes: from the human gut, to particles in the ocean, to the surface of leaves.

The focus of this postdoctoral position will be on the development of theoretical tools, in terms of both single-agent models and population-scale models, to uncover the unifying biophysical principles of microbiomes, such as those operating in the human gut, on plant leaves, on sludge granules, in animal model systems and beyond. By bringing and further developing extensive expertise in biophysics, you will provide critical support to researchers across the NCCR consortium, with opportunities to be exposed to a broad range of scientific questions, coauthor publications with multiple collaborators, and advance the field of theoretical biophysics applied to microbiome research.

You have a strong theoretical background, ideally in physics, engineering, biophysics or related disciplines, and a strong desire to work in a highly interdisciplinary environment at the interface between biophysics, microbiology, and microbial ecology. Demonstrated skills in the field of biophysics through a diverse range of projects will be desirable. The researcher will have the opportunity to work in a cutting-edge, fast-paced research environment, to interact with researchers from many different disciplines, to learn about fundamental biophysical and ecological processes in microorganisms and to interact with world-class collaborators. The resources and goals of this NCCR will provide a setting for contributions at the forefront of microbiome research. The ability to work independently, come up with creative and innovative solutions, communicate clearly and work collaboratively with multiple partner groups will be fundamental.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

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